Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A signal acquisition apparatus comprising: an input device for receiving an input signal; a number of signal memories comprising at least a first signal memory and a second signal memory; a trigger device for generating trigger signals when detecting a trigger event, wherein a first trigger signal is generated when detecting first trigger event and a second trigger signal is generated when detecting a second trigger event; and an acquisition device for receiving the trigger signals from the trigger device and storing a predetermined segment of the received input signal in one of the signal memories when a trigger signal is generated; wherein a first segment of the received input signal is stored in the first signal memory when the first trigger signal is generated, and a second segment of the received input signal is stored in the second signal memory when the second trigger signal is generated, the first segment and the second segment each relate to data of the received input signal for a predetermined period of time, respectively, and wherein the acquisition device is adapted to identify an overlapping signal portion between the first segment and the second segment, and to copy the overlapping signal portion from the first signal memory to the second signal memory, such that the overlapping portion is stored in each of the first and the second signal memories, if an overlapping signal portion is identified, the overlapping portion is a nail of the data in which the first segment and the second segment overlap.
The invention relates to a signal acquisition apparatus designed to capture and store segments of an input signal in response to trigger events. The apparatus includes an input device for receiving the input signal and multiple signal memories, including at least a first and a second memory. A trigger device detects trigger events and generates corresponding trigger signals—a first trigger signal for a first event and a second trigger signal for a second event. An acquisition device receives these trigger signals and stores a predetermined segment of the input signal in one of the signal memories upon detecting a trigger signal. When the first trigger signal is generated, a first segment of the input signal is stored in the first memory, and when the second trigger signal is generated, a second segment is stored in the second memory. Both segments correspond to data from the input signal over a predetermined time period. The acquisition device further identifies any overlapping signal portions between the first and second segments. If an overlap is detected, the overlapping portion is copied from the first memory to the second memory, ensuring the overlapping data is stored in both memories. This overlapping portion represents the shared data where the first and second segments coincide. The apparatus ensures that critical signal data is preserved in both memories, preventing loss of information due to separate trigger events. This is particularly useful in applications requiring precise signal capture and analysis, such as in scientific measurements or industrial monitoring.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the signal memories are operated as a cyclic memories, in particular ring buffers.
This invention relates to signal processing systems that use memory buffers to store and retrieve signals. The problem addressed is the efficient management of signal data in systems where continuous or periodic signal processing is required, such as in communication systems, data acquisition, or real-time signal analysis. Traditional memory structures may not efficiently handle the cyclic nature of signal data, leading to inefficiencies in data access and processing. The apparatus includes signal memories configured as cyclic memories, specifically ring buffers. A ring buffer is a fixed-size, circular data structure that allows continuous writing and reading of data in a loop, ensuring that older data is automatically overwritten when the buffer is full. This design enables seamless handling of streaming or periodic signals without data loss or disruptions. The ring buffer structure allows for efficient data retrieval and processing by maintaining a consistent memory access pattern, reducing latency, and optimizing memory usage. The apparatus may also include additional components such as signal processors, controllers, or interfaces to manage data flow and processing operations. The use of ring buffers ensures that the system can handle real-time signal processing tasks with minimal overhead, making it suitable for applications requiring high-speed data throughput and low-latency operations.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 , comprising an acquisition memory including the number of signal memories.
A system for signal processing includes an acquisition memory configured to store multiple signal memories. Each signal memory is designed to hold a distinct signal or data set, allowing the apparatus to manage and process multiple signals simultaneously. The acquisition memory is structured to facilitate efficient storage and retrieval of these signals, enabling real-time or near-real-time signal analysis. This configuration is particularly useful in applications requiring parallel signal processing, such as telecommunications, radar systems, or medical imaging, where multiple signals must be captured, stored, and analyzed concurrently. The system enhances processing efficiency by reducing latency and improving data management, addressing challenges associated with handling large volumes of signal data in high-speed environments. The acquisition memory's modular design allows for scalability, accommodating varying numbers of signal memories based on system requirements. This flexibility ensures adaptability to different operational scenarios, from low-complexity applications to high-performance computing tasks. The apparatus optimizes resource utilization by dynamically allocating storage and processing capabilities, ensuring optimal performance across diverse signal processing applications.
4. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the acquisition memory is a cyclic memory, in particular a ring buffer.
A system for data acquisition and processing includes a cyclic memory, specifically a ring buffer, to store incoming data streams. The apparatus is designed for real-time data handling, where data is continuously acquired and processed without interruption. The cyclic memory allows for efficient data storage by overwriting the oldest data when the buffer is full, ensuring that only the most recent data is retained. This is particularly useful in applications where continuous data streaming is required, such as sensor monitoring, signal processing, or real-time analytics. The ring buffer structure enables fast read and write operations, reducing latency and improving system performance. The apparatus may also include additional components for data filtering, compression, or transmission, depending on the specific application. The use of a cyclic memory ensures that the system can handle high data rates while maintaining a fixed memory footprint, making it suitable for embedded systems or resource-constrained environments. The invention addresses the challenge of managing continuous data streams in real-time systems, where traditional memory structures may lead to data loss or increased latency.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the trigger events, in particular the first trigger event and the second trigger event, are based on a number of trigger modes and/or a number of trigger conditions.
This invention relates to an apparatus for detecting and responding to trigger events in a system, particularly in industrial or automated environments where real-time monitoring and control are critical. The apparatus addresses the problem of efficiently identifying and processing multiple trigger events that may occur under different conditions, ensuring timely and appropriate system responses. The apparatus includes a detection module that monitors system parameters and identifies trigger events based on predefined trigger modes and conditions. Trigger modes define the type of event being monitored, such as sensor readings, time-based events, or state changes, while trigger conditions specify the criteria that must be met for an event to be recognized. For example, a trigger condition might involve a sensor reading exceeding a threshold value, or a specific time interval elapsing. The apparatus further includes a processing module that evaluates detected trigger events against the defined modes and conditions. If a trigger event meets the specified criteria, the apparatus generates a response, such as activating an alarm, adjusting system parameters, or initiating a corrective action. The system is designed to handle multiple trigger events simultaneously, ensuring that each event is processed according to its associated mode and condition. This invention improves system reliability and responsiveness by providing a flexible and configurable framework for trigger event detection and management, reducing the risk of missed or delayed responses in dynamic environments.
6. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the number of trigger modes comprises a first trigger mode for detecting an event in the received input signal and a second trigger mode for detecting a lapse of time.
This invention relates to an apparatus for processing input signals, particularly in systems requiring event detection and time-based triggering. The apparatus addresses the challenge of efficiently monitoring signals for specific events while also managing time-based operations, ensuring accurate and timely responses in applications such as industrial automation, sensor networks, or data acquisition systems. The apparatus includes a signal processing unit that receives an input signal and analyzes it for predefined events. The system supports multiple trigger modes, including a first mode for detecting events within the input signal and a second mode for tracking the passage of time. In the first mode, the apparatus identifies occurrences of specific conditions or patterns in the signal, such as voltage thresholds, frequency changes, or other predefined criteria. In the second mode, the apparatus monitors elapsed time intervals, triggering actions after a set duration or at scheduled intervals. The apparatus may also include a control unit that manages the transition between trigger modes, ensuring seamless operation based on system requirements. For example, the apparatus can switch between event detection and time-based triggering to optimize performance, such as prioritizing event detection during active signal periods and reverting to time-based monitoring during idle states. This dual-mode functionality enhances flexibility and reliability in dynamic environments where both event-driven and time-driven operations are necessary. The apparatus may further integrate with external systems or sensors to provide real-time feedback or initiate automated responses based on detected events or time lapses.
7. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the number of trigger conditions comprises at least one of exceeding a predetermined value, falling below a predetermined value, a rising edge, a falling edge or lapsing a predetermined period of time.
This invention relates to an apparatus for monitoring and responding to trigger conditions in a system. The apparatus includes a sensor or input interface that detects operational parameters such as voltage, current, temperature, or other measurable quantities. The system evaluates these parameters against predefined trigger conditions, which may include exceeding or falling below a threshold value, detecting a rising or falling edge in the signal, or the passage of a predetermined time period. When a trigger condition is met, the apparatus generates an output signal or initiates a predefined action, such as activating an alarm, adjusting system settings, or logging the event. The apparatus may be used in industrial control systems, environmental monitoring, or safety mechanisms to ensure timely responses to critical conditions. The invention improves reliability and responsiveness by allowing flexible configuration of multiple trigger conditions, ensuring accurate detection and appropriate reactions to varying operational states.
8. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the predetermined segment comprises a first portion of the input signal before a point in time of the trigger event and a second portion of the input signal following the point in time of the trigger event.
This invention relates to signal processing systems, specifically for analyzing input signals in relation to trigger events. The problem addressed is the need to capture and evaluate signal segments that span both before and after a trigger event, providing a comprehensive view of signal behavior around the event. The apparatus includes a signal processing system that receives an input signal and detects a trigger event within that signal. Upon detection, the system isolates a predetermined segment of the input signal, which consists of two distinct portions: a first portion that precedes the trigger event and a second portion that follows it. This segmented approach allows for detailed analysis of both the pre-event and post-event signal characteristics, enabling better understanding of the event's impact or cause. The system may further include components for storing, analyzing, or transmitting the segmented signal data. The trigger event can be identified based on predefined criteria, such as a threshold crossing, pattern recognition, or external synchronization. The apparatus ensures that the captured segment is centered around the trigger event, providing a complete temporal context for further processing or diagnostic purposes. This method is particularly useful in applications like fault detection, event monitoring, or real-time signal analysis where understanding the signal behavior before and after an event is critical.
9. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein a length of the first portion and/or a length of the second portion is set individually for the first trigger event and the second trigger event.
This invention relates to an apparatus for managing trigger events in a system, addressing the need for flexible and adaptive event handling. The apparatus includes a detection module configured to identify a first trigger event and a second trigger event, each associated with distinct conditions or thresholds. The apparatus further comprises a response module that generates a first response to the first trigger event and a second response to the second trigger event. The responses may involve actions such as data processing, system adjustments, or notifications. A key feature of the apparatus is the ability to individually set the length of a first portion and/or a second portion of the response for each trigger event. The first portion may correspond to an initial phase of the response, while the second portion may relate to a subsequent phase or a different aspect of the response. By allowing independent configuration of these lengths, the apparatus enables tailored responses that can adapt to varying event characteristics or system requirements. This flexibility ensures that the system can efficiently handle different types of trigger events without requiring uniform response parameters. The apparatus may be used in various applications, including industrial automation, network management, or real-time monitoring systems, where adaptive event handling is critical for optimal performance.
10. A signal acquisition method comprising: receiving an input signal; generating trigger signals when detecting a trigger event in the received input signal, wherein a first trigger signal is generated when a first trigger event is detected and a second trigger signal is generated when a second trigger event a detected; and storing a predetermined segment of the received input signal in one of a number of signal memories when a trigger signal is generated; wherein a first segment of the received input signal is stored in a first signal memory when the first trigger signal is generated, and a second segment of the received input signal is stored in a second signal memory when the second trigger signal is generated, the first segment and the second segment each relate to data of the received input for a predetermined period of time, respectively, wherein the method further comprises: identifying an overlapping signal portion between the first segment and the second segment, and copying the overlapping signal portion from the first signal memory to the second signal memory, such that the overlapping portion is stored in each of the first and the second signal memories if an overlapping signal portion is identified, the overlapping portion s a part of the data in which the first segment and the second segment overlap.
This invention relates to signal acquisition systems, specifically methods for capturing and storing segments of an input signal based on detected trigger events. The problem addressed is the efficient storage and management of signal data when multiple trigger events occur, particularly when the events are close in time, leading to overlapping signal segments. The method involves receiving an input signal and generating trigger signals when specific trigger events are detected. A first trigger signal is generated upon detecting a first trigger event, and a second trigger signal is generated upon detecting a second trigger event. When a trigger signal is generated, a predetermined segment of the input signal is stored in one of multiple signal memories. The first segment of the input signal is stored in a first memory when the first trigger signal is generated, and the second segment is stored in a second memory when the second trigger signal is generated. Each segment corresponds to a fixed period of the input signal data. If the first and second segments overlap, the method identifies the overlapping portion and copies it from the first memory to the second memory. This ensures the overlapping portion is stored in both memories, preventing data loss while maintaining continuity in the stored signal segments. The approach optimizes storage efficiency and ensures complete signal capture when multiple trigger events occur in close succession.
11. The method of claim 10 , wherein the signal memories are operated as a cyclic memories, in particular ring buffers.
A system and method for managing signal data in a cyclic memory structure, particularly ring buffers, to optimize data storage and retrieval in real-time processing applications. The invention addresses the challenge of efficiently handling continuous data streams where older data must be overwritten to make room for new incoming data, ensuring minimal latency and seamless data flow. The cyclic memory structure allows for continuous, circular storage where the oldest data is automatically overwritten once the buffer is full, maintaining a fixed-size window of the most recent data. This approach is particularly useful in applications such as signal processing, telecommunications, and real-time monitoring systems where data must be accessed in a time-ordered sequence without interruption. The method ensures that data is stored and retrieved in a predictable manner, reducing the risk of data loss and improving system performance. The cyclic memory structure can be implemented in hardware or software, depending on the specific requirements of the application, and can be configured to handle varying data sizes and processing speeds. The invention provides a robust solution for managing large volumes of time-sensitive data while maintaining high efficiency and reliability.
12. The method of claim 10 , wherein the number of signal memories are memories of an acquisition memory.
A system and method for signal processing involves acquiring and storing signals in an acquisition memory, where the signals are derived from a physical phenomenon. The acquisition memory comprises multiple signal memories, each configured to store a portion of the acquired signal data. The system processes the stored signals to extract relevant information, such as identifying patterns, anomalies, or specific features within the data. The method ensures efficient storage and retrieval of signal data by distributing the signal portions across the multiple signal memories, optimizing memory usage and access speed. The system may further include preprocessing steps to condition the signals before storage, such as filtering, amplification, or digitization, to enhance data quality. The acquired signals may originate from sensors, measurement devices, or other data sources, and the system is designed to handle high-frequency or high-resolution signals where data integrity and processing efficiency are critical. The method ensures that the signal memories within the acquisition memory are synchronized to maintain temporal coherence of the stored data, allowing for accurate reconstruction and analysis of the original signal. The system may be applied in fields such as telecommunications, medical imaging, industrial monitoring, or scientific research, where precise signal acquisition and processing are essential.
13. The method of claim 12 , wherein the acquisition memory is operated as a cyclic memory, in particular a ring buffer.
A system and method for data acquisition and processing involves capturing data from a sensor or data source and storing it in an acquisition memory. The acquisition memory is configured to operate as a cyclic memory, specifically a ring buffer, to efficiently manage data storage and retrieval. In this configuration, the memory continuously overwrites the oldest data when new data is received, ensuring that only the most recent data is retained. This approach optimizes memory usage and enables real-time processing of incoming data. The system may include a data processing unit that analyzes the acquired data, and the cyclic memory structure allows for seamless data flow without interruptions. The method ensures that the acquisition memory operates in a loop, maintaining a fixed-size buffer that cyclically stores and overwrites data, which is particularly useful in applications requiring continuous data monitoring and real-time analysis. The ring buffer implementation enhances system performance by reducing memory overhead and improving data access efficiency. This technique is applicable in various fields, including industrial monitoring, medical diagnostics, and environmental sensing, where real-time data processing is critical.
14. The method of claim 10 , wherein the trigger events, in particular the first trigger event and the second trigger event, are based on a number of trigger modes and/or a number of trigger conditions.
This invention relates to a system for managing trigger events in a technical process, particularly in automated or semi-automated systems where specific actions are initiated based on predefined conditions. The problem addressed is the need for flexible and adaptable trigger mechanisms that can respond to various operational states or external inputs, ensuring timely and accurate execution of subsequent steps. The method involves defining multiple trigger modes and trigger conditions to determine when specific actions should occur. Trigger modes represent different operational states or scenarios, such as system initialization, user input, or external sensor data. Trigger conditions are specific criteria that must be met for a trigger event to occur, such as reaching a threshold value, detecting a particular signal, or receiving a command. The system monitors these conditions and activates the corresponding trigger events when the criteria are satisfied. For example, a first trigger event may be initiated when a sensor detects a predefined value, while a second trigger event may be activated based on a different condition, such as a timer expiration or a user command. The use of multiple modes and conditions allows for precise control over when and how actions are executed, improving system responsiveness and reliability. This approach is particularly useful in industrial automation, robotics, and other applications where real-time decision-making is critical. The method ensures that trigger events are dynamically adjusted based on changing conditions, enhancing overall system performance.
15. The method of claim 14 , wherein the number of trigger modes comprises a first trigger mode for detecting an event in the received input signal and a second trigger mode for detecting a lapse of time.
A system and method for signal processing involves monitoring an input signal to detect specific events or time-based conditions. The method operates in multiple trigger modes, including a first mode that identifies events within the input signal and a second mode that tracks the passage of time. The first trigger mode analyzes the signal to detect predefined events, such as changes in amplitude, frequency, or other characteristics, while the second mode monitors elapsed time to trigger actions after a specified duration. The system may use these modes independently or in combination to control subsequent processing steps, such as data logging, alert generation, or system adjustments. The method ensures reliable detection of both event-driven and time-driven conditions, improving responsiveness and accuracy in applications like industrial monitoring, medical diagnostics, or environmental sensing. The approach enhances flexibility by allowing dynamic switching between trigger modes based on operational requirements, ensuring adaptability to varying signal conditions and use cases.
16. The method of claim 14 , wherein the number of trigger conditions comprises at least one of exceeding a predetermined value, falling below a predetermined value, a rising edge, a falling edge or lapsing a predetermined period of time.
This invention relates to a method for monitoring and responding to trigger conditions in a system, particularly in applications requiring real-time or event-based processing. The method addresses the need for flexible and precise detection of various types of conditions, such as threshold crossings, signal edges, or time-based events, to enable timely and accurate system responses. The method involves defining a set of trigger conditions that can include exceeding or falling below a predetermined value, detecting a rising or falling edge in a signal, or monitoring the lapse of a predetermined period of time. These conditions are used to initiate specific actions or processes within the system. The method ensures that the system can respond dynamically to different types of events, improving efficiency and reliability in applications such as industrial automation, sensor monitoring, or data processing systems. By supporting multiple types of trigger conditions, the method provides a versatile solution for systems that require adaptive behavior based on varying input signals or environmental changes. The flexibility in defining trigger conditions allows for customization to different operational scenarios, ensuring that the system can handle a wide range of real-world conditions effectively.
17. The method of claim 10 , wherein the predetermined segment comprises a first portion of the input signal before a point in time of the trigger event and a second portion of the input signal following the point in time of the trigger event.
This invention relates to signal processing, specifically methods for analyzing input signals in relation to trigger events. The problem addressed is the need to capture and evaluate signal data both before and after a trigger event occurs, ensuring comprehensive analysis of the signal's behavior around the event. The method involves segmenting an input signal into portions based on a trigger event. The predetermined segment includes a first portion of the signal preceding the trigger event and a second portion following it. This allows for examination of the signal's state before and after the event, which is critical in applications like fault detection, event monitoring, or real-time system analysis. The method ensures that relevant signal data is preserved for further processing, such as pattern recognition, anomaly detection, or performance evaluation. The trigger event can be any detectable change or condition in the signal, such as a threshold crossing, a specific waveform feature, or an external input. The segmentation ensures that the signal is divided into meaningful sections for analysis, improving the accuracy and reliability of subsequent evaluations. This approach is particularly useful in systems where understanding the context of an event is essential, such as in industrial monitoring, medical diagnostics, or automotive systems. The method can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of both, depending on the application requirements.
18. The method of claim 17 , wherein a length of the first portion and/or a length of the second portion is set individually for the first trigger event and the second trigger event.
This invention relates to a method for dynamically adjusting the lengths of portions of a process or system in response to different trigger events. The method involves dividing a process or system into at least two portions, where the length of each portion can be independently set based on specific trigger events. The first portion and the second portion are associated with different trigger events, and their lengths are configured individually to optimize performance or functionality when those events occur. The method ensures that the system or process adapts efficiently to varying conditions by customizing the segment lengths for each trigger event, improving responsiveness and accuracy. This approach is particularly useful in systems requiring real-time adjustments, such as automated control systems, data processing pipelines, or event-driven applications. The invention addresses the problem of rigid, predefined segment lengths that fail to adapt to dynamic conditions, leading to inefficiencies or errors. By allowing independent configuration of portion lengths for different triggers, the method enhances flexibility and performance in event-driven environments.
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May 5, 2020
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